There is increasing reflection and literature on the concept of the "self" in spirituality, psychology, and various social sciences. A common question arises: "Who am I?" In many modern cultures, the self is often seen as an “individual entity, separate from others.” While this view holds some validity, it is incomplete.
Dr. Daniel J. Siegel, a renowned psychiatrist and expert in interpersonal neurobiology, offers a broader perspective, defining the self as “I am we.” He argues that our sense of self is never truly isolated from others or the environment. Our identity develops through relationships, beginning with our parents and extending outward to our interactions with the universe. The mind serves as a meeting point between the internal world and external reality, constantly integrating both to form our sense of self. Therefore, our identity is shaped by our relationships with others and the world around us; the self cannot exist in isolation—"I" is always "we."
Dr. Siegel emphasizes that meaning, wisdom, happiness, and well-being come from being interconnected with others in a community. It is about recognizing that we are part of something larger than our individual selves. Understanding the self as "we" has profound implications: harming others is, in fact, harming ourselves. This mindset nurtures empathy, connection, and altruism, breaking patterns of discrimination and hostility, particularly toward those who are different. It also promotes a more responsible, respectful relationship with nature, as we recognize our deep connection to the natural world.
In essence, viewing oneself not as a separate, isolated entity but as an integral part of the whole transforms both our perspective and how we live: 'I am we.' In this unity, we discover true meaning, deeper connection, and a path toward collective healing, growth, and communion.
Notes
Siegel, D. (2024, September 25). Dan Siegel: The neurological basis of behavior, the mind, the brain, and human relationships.
We the people, justice, equality, blessings, liberty, posterity for all. Great topic Thank you.
ReplyDeleteI and my Father are one
ReplyDeleteGood reflection
ReplyDeleteQuite an interesting perspective. Thank you for sharing.
ReplyDeleteGreat wisdom.
ReplyDeletewide a view
ReplyDeleteGood topic
ReplyDeleteThank you Fray John Baptist
ReplyDeleteTo bad we don't discoverb this till later in life. I refer to my teens and into my 30's when I said "It's my life" thinking no one else would be affected. Thank God I eventually learned how wrong I was.
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